Arm lift
An arm lift corrects sagging upper arms by removing excess skin and, if necessary, fat. Discover when this procedure is recommended, what the recovery process involves, and what you can expect from the results.
What is an arm lift (brachioplasty)?
An arm lift, also known as brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure in which excess skin and potentially fat are removed from the upper arms.
The treatment is often considered when the skin of the arms has become lax due to aging, significant weight loss, or genetic predisposition.
When skin elasticity decreases, excess skin can develop that can no longer be corrected through exercise or diet.
The goal of an arm lift is to make the upper arms firmer, slimmer, and better proportioned to the rest of the body.
In certain cases, additional skin tightening may be considered using less invasive techniques.
An example of this is J-Plasma, where controlled energy is used under the skin to cause tissue contraction and improve skin quality.
This technique is particularly suitable for mild skin laxity and is not an alternative to an arm lift when significant excess skin is present.
INDICATIONS
When is an arm lift considered?
procedure
How is an arm lift performed?
During an arm lift, excess skin and potentially fat are removed to make the upper arms firmer and better proportioned to the rest of the body.
Safety
Not every patient requires the same procedure. The choice depends on the amount of excess skin, the quality of the skin, and the shape of the arm.
With limited excess skin, a mini arm lift may sometimes suffice, involving a smaller incision in the armpit area. When there is significant excess skin, a full arm lift is usually recommended.
The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia.
Results
An arm lift can provide firmer upper arms, a slimmer arm profile, and a better proportion to the rest of the body.
The goal of the procedure is a natural result where the arms better complement the overall silhouette.
The result is usually long-lasting, provided that weight remains stable.
Aftercare
After the procedure, temporary swelling of the arms, a feeling of tightness, and mild bruising may occur.
In addition, compression garments are usually worn for several weeks to support the healing process.
Heavy arm movements and intensive sports are temporarily discouraged.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Your questions about an arm lift answered
Can an arm lift be combined with liposuction?
Yes. Liposuction is often combined with an arm lift to reduce additional fat deposits and further refine the arm contour.
What is the difference between a mini arm lift and a full arm lift?
With limited excess skin, a mini arm lift via an incision in the armpit may suffice. With significant excess skin, a full arm lift is usually necessary, with the scar running along the inside of the arm.
What is the recovery process after an arm lift?
After the procedure, temporary swelling, bruising, and a feeling of tightness may occur. Compression garments are usually worn for several weeks. Light activities can often be resumed after one to two weeks.
Will the scar remain visible?
A scar is inevitable with an arm lift. In a mini arm lift, it is usually limited to the armpit. In a full arm lift, the scar runs along the inside of the arm, from the armpit toward the elbow. It usually fades gradually.
Can exercise replace an arm lift?
Exercise can strengthen the muscles, but excess skin does not disappear through training. When skin elasticity has been lost, surgical correction may be necessary.
Is an arm lift only for people after weight loss?
The result is usually long-lasting, provided that weight remains stable. Further aging or significant weight fluctuations can affect the result.
How long will the results remain visible?
No. Even with a normal body weight, the skin of the upper arms can be genetically lax or sag over the years.
Which technique is most suitable for me?
That depends on the amount of excess skin, the quality of the skin, and the shape of the arm. During the consultation, it will be determined whether a mini arm lift, full arm lift, or a combination with liposuction is most appropriate.
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